Let's Take a Day Trip

NEW YORK CITY — People from all corners of the globe flock to New York City to immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere that the Big Apple exudes during the holiday season. As I stood at the bustling intersection of 34th Street and Broadway, I was surrounded by the joyful sounds of laughter and excitement as tourists eagerly snapped photos of the spectacular holiday displays in Macy’s windows. Each window was a masterpiece, showcasing intricate designs and animated scenes that captivated both children and adults alike.

The air was alive with the cheerful strains of Christmas music, echoing through the streets and contributing to a festive ambiance that felt like something straight out of a classic holiday film. The twinkling lights adorning the trees and buildings created a shimmering backdrop, while the scent of roasted chestnuts and hot cocoa wafted through the air, drawing people further into the holiday spirit.

In this piece, I will explore the many reasons why spending Christmas in New York City is an unforgettable experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list, even if you can only enjoy it once in your lifetime. From the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to the festive markets and the warmth of the city’s holiday spirit, New York City during Christmas is truly a magical experience.

I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Hilton Newark Airport in Newark, New Jersey, and I can confidently recommend it to others. The hotel itself has a welcoming atmosphere with a modern design, and it was impeccably clean throughout my visit. However, one drawback was that my room felt a bit chilly; I struggled to get the heater to function effectively, which made it somewhat uncomfortable during the night.

One feature that stood out to me was the convenient shuttle service available at the hotel. It provided a hassle-free ride to P4 parking at Newark Airport, which I found immensely helpful. Once there, I was able to catch the AirTrain, which offers easy access to the New Jersey Transit train stop for those traveling to the airport. This service made the transition from the hotel to the airport smooth and efficient.

After my time at the hotel, I took the train into New York City and arrived at the iconic Penn Station. The fare was a bit on the high side, nearly $17, which is much steeper than the rates I typically see with the Metra trains back in the Chicagoland area.

Nevertheless, the journey was worth it. As I ascended the escalator at Penn Station, I was met with a breathtaking view of the Empire State Building rising majestically in the distance. The scene was even more enchanting with delicate snowflakes drifting down gently from the nearby buildings, creating a picturesque winter moment that truly captured the essence of the city.

The streets and sidewalks of New York City buzzed with an unprecedented level of activity that day. As I navigated through the throngs of holiday shoppers, the festive atmosphere was palpable, but I couldn’t help feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of people bustling about. After completing some light Christmas shopping—a delightful mix of unique gifts and holiday decorations—I decided to treat myself to a delicious chicken sandwich at a nearby Chick-Fil-A located at the corner of 37th Street and 6th Avenue.

Arriving at the restaurant, I noticed that the lower level didn’t offer any seating options. However, I found a staircase and an elevator that led up to the second floor. Once I ascended, I was greeted by a cozy dining area with a large window overlooking the busy street below. I settled down with my sandwich and fries, savoring each bite while watching the vibrant city life unfold outside: cabs speeding by, pedestrians chatting and hurrying to their destinations, and street performers entertaining the crowds.

Feeling recharged, I made my way north along 6th Avenue towards 42nd Street, where I entered the enchanting Bryant Park. The park was transformed into a winter wonderland, filled with countless holiday shops and stands offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to gourmet treats. The air was filled with the sweet scent of roasted chestnuts and warm cider, while the cheerful sounds of laughter and holiday music surrounded me. I spent some time soaking in the festive atmosphere, admiring the beautifully decorated trees and watching families and friends gather to enjoy the seasonal delights.

After finishing my lovely stroll through Bryant Park, I continued my walk up the bustling Sixth Avenue, where the sights and sounds of the city enveloped me. As I approached 49th Street, I made a left turn and soon found myself standing in front of the iconic Rockefeller Center.

There, I was greeted by the breathtaking sight of the magnificent 74-foot Christmas tree, standing tall and regal, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights that glimmered like stars against the night sky. Each branch seemed to shimmer with holiday cheer, radiating warmth and joy.

The air was alive with the cheerful notes of classic Christmas music playing from nearby speakers, creating a festive atmosphere that filled my heart with nostalgia. Surrounding the tree, crowds of people were gathered, their faces illuminated by the twinkling lights, all capturing memories on their phones and sharing delighted smiles with one another.

As I stood there, absorbing the sights and sounds, a wave of gratitude washed over me. I couldn’t help but reflect on my blessings—family, friends, and the simple joys of the season. In that moment, surrounded by strangers who felt like companions in celebration, I embraced the spirit of the holidays. It was a heartwarming experience that reminded me to appreciate everything I have and to savor the magical essence of this time of year.

I love New York City.

As I close, my hope is that my readers had a great holiday season and look forward to the New Year. While we don’t know what tomorrow or 2025 will bring, let’s all be kind and explore this beautiful world we live in.